Shandril of Highmoon, an orphaned scullery maid, dreams of a life of adventure and excitement far from the drudgery of her daily tasks. On a whim, she runs away to seek adventure, unknowingly setting a course for the grotto of the most feared creature in the Realms.

The dracolich is shrouded in unspeakable evil that can be defeated only by a power equally as strong. Thanks to enchantments created by the great mage Elminster, the only magic strong enough to triumph must be channeled through Shandril’s own body. With the enormous burden of saving the Realms now on her shoulders, Shandril finds the adventure she sought—as well as death, terror, and love.